Welcome to February!👋
As we settle into the new year, many of us might be noticing how the "digital" and the "human" parts of our classrooms are becoming more intertwined. With the recent updates from BETT 2026, we’ve seen how AI is moving from a background tool to an active participant in our students' learning journeys.
Because of this, we’ve chosen to dedicate this month to exploring Digital Well-Being & Safety. This isn't just about technical settings; it's about the heart of our work—how we help our learners stay curious, stay safe, and stay human in a world where technology is constantly evolving.
A Global Moment of Connection
Our February content for the Google Educator Community will be in support and recognition of Safer Internet Day (Feb. 10).
Unfamiliar with Safer Internet Day?
Starting as an initiative of the EU SafeBorders project in 2004 and taken up by the Insafe network as one of its earliest actions in 2005, Safer Internet Day has grown beyond its traditional geographic zone and is now celebrated in more than 160 countries and territories worldwide. From cyberbullying to social networking to digital identity, each year Safer Internet Day aims to raise awareness of emerging online issues and current concerns.
Google is joining with educators and families worldwide as a core partner for Safer Internet Day. This year's global theme, "Smart tech, safe choices – Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI," invites us all to think about how we can build better habits together. This connects deeply with the work of UNESCO’s (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization),shared vision for safe and inclusive learning environments.
How Might We Support Our Learners This Year?
In light of the 2025/2026 Google updates, we’ve been reflecting on a few ways we might help students navigate their digital lives with more confidence:
- Inquiry over Answers: How might we use the new Gemini Writing Coach to help students see writing as a journey of discovery rather than just a finished product?
- Visibility and Support: In what ways could the new mirroring and annotation tools for Chromebooks help us stay more connected to our students’ needs in the moment?
- Confidence in Expression: How might native audio and video recording in Classroom allow students who struggle with traditional writing to share their authentic voices?
- Guided Discovery: How can we use the Be Internet Awesome curriculum to turn media literacy into a playful, shared exploration for our youngest learners?
Your Turn to Lead the Conversation: Digital well-being looks different in every context. How are you (or might you be) approaching these topics in your community this month? In the comments below, share your thoughts, questions, and even the small "wins" you’ve discovered!
